You can forward calls from your Google Voice number to Beside, but be aware that due to Google Voice's own limitations, call forwarding may not always work reliably. Follow the steps below carefully to maximize your chances of a stable setup.
⚠️ Porting is more reliable:
Call forwarding from Google Voice can be unreliable due to Google Voice's own restrictions.
If you want a seamless experience with both calls and texts, porting your number is the better option.
Enable Call Forwarding from Google Voice
1️⃣ Open Google Voice settings
On your computer or mobile browser, visit voice.google.com and sign in.
In the left-hand menu, click Settings.
2️⃣ Add a linked number
Go to the Account tab.
Under the Linked numbers section, click the "+ New linked number" button.
3️⃣ Verify your Beside number by phone call
When prompted for verification, you may see options for text or phone verification.
Choose "Verify by phone" ⚠️
Due to Google Voice's 2FA requirements, SMS-based verification is not supported. You must choose the "Verify by phone" option to proceed.
Google Voice will call your Beside number and read a 6-digit code.
Answer the call on your Beside app, note the code, and enter it on the Google Voice verification screen.
4️⃣ Confirm linked number and enable forwarding
Once verified, your Beside number will appear as a linked number in your Google Voice settings.
5️⃣ Make sure call forwarding is correctly configured.
Navigate to the Calls tab:
Under My devices, turn OFF all connected devices - including the device you installed Beside on and the Web device (1)
Under Call forwarding, turn ON the toggle for your Beside number (2)
Disable Call Screening ⚠️
Make sure to turn off Call Screening in Google Voice settings. If left on, it will intercept calls before they reach Beside.
6️⃣ Test your setup
Use another phone to call your Google Voice number.
Your call should be forwarded to your Beside number and ring in your Beside app.
Troubleshooting
Didn't receive the verification call?
Make sure Beside is properly set up to receive calls - check for Do Not Disturb settings, an active subscription, and that the app is running.
No "Verify by phone" option?
Try using a desktop browser or an incognito window.
Google Voice sometimes displays different verification options depending on your session or region.
Hearing "Hello, please state your name after the tone"?
This means the Screen calls option is enabled in Google Voice.
You need to turn it off for call forwarding to work properly.
FAQ
Is call forwarding from Google Voice reliable?
Is call forwarding from Google Voice reliable?
Due to Google Voice's own limitations, call forwarding can be unreliable.
If you experience issues, porting your number is the most reliable alternative.
Will text messages also be forwarded?
Will text messages also be forwarded?
No - this method only forwards voice calls. Text messages are not forwarded. For full calls and texts integration, you'll need to port your number instead.
Why can't I verify by SMS?
Why can't I verify by SMS?
Google Voice's 2FA requirements prevent SMS-based verification from working with Beside numbers. You must use the "Verify by phone" option during setup.
What's the difference between call forwarding and porting?
What's the difference between call forwarding and porting?
Call forwarding routes calls from Google Voice to Beside, but your number stays with Google Voice - and Google Voice's limitations apply.
Porting transfers your number to Beside entirely, giving you full calls and texts integration with no known reliability issues.